Fentanyl is an incredibly dangerous opioid, but it is important to remember that all narcotics can cause serious side effects, especially if misused. Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? now if you or someone you love has been suffering from an opioid addiction syndrome and needs help finding safe, affordable treatment.
The Dangers of Fentanyl
Fentanyl is more potent than morphine and even heroin.
Fentanyl is an especially dangerous opioid because of the many issues associated with the drug’s use, its incredibly intense effects, and the limited knowledge that exists about the drug itself. According to the National Library of Medicine, fentanyl is only meant to be taken by individuals who have breakthrough pain that cannot be managed by another opioid medication and who are already taking another opioid around-the-clock. Unfortunately, though, fentanyl abuse is a serious issue in our society today.
Many people are beginning to abuse fentanyl because it is such a strong drug. But what many users do not know is the drug is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and it is even more potent than heroin. Because of this, those who misuse it are at a serious risk of overdose, since the drug is so much stronger than most other opioids of abuse.
Some individuals as well wind up taking fentanyl without knowing it, as it is sometimes combined with heroin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this also increases one’s likelihood of deadly overdose, whether the fentanyl is illegally made or has been diverted to the black market. No matter the case, fentanyl abuse is extremely dangerous and can cause serious side effects for the user.
Is Fentanyl the Most Dangerous Opioid?
Fentanyl is certainly dangerous and may in fact be one of the most dangerous opioids on the market. But the truth is different opioids have different potential side effects and different strengths that can cause serious problems when these drugs are abused. Tramadol, for example, can cause a severe withdrawal syndrome that creates psychosis and hallucinations, and people who abuse heroin can unknowingly introduce additives into their system that are dangerous and deadly (Center for Substance Abuse Research).
Take Care When Taking an Opioid Drug
What’s important to remember is that every opioid drug can become dangerous if it is abused. Though fentanyl has some of the most intense effects of any opioid, any type of drug in this category can cause addiction, overdose, dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and a host of other serious effects if misused. In addition, drinking or taking other drugs with any opioid can intensify their effects and make them more likely to cause a deadly overdose.
The best way to stay safe is to follow instructions and to stay vigilant when taking opioids. Always follow your doctor’s prescription and call them if you begin to notice serious side effects that could be dangerous.
You Can Find Safe, Reliable Rehab Programs Now
If you have been abusing opioids, now is the time to seek help. You can find safe, reliable rehab programs that will take your needs into account by calling 800-442-6158 Who Answers? today.
